Homer Knute Rue

Homer Knute Rue, age 95, of Salem, Oregon, passed away on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. He was born on September 19, 1929, in Los Angeles, California to Ferdinand and Anna Rue. Homer was the eldest of 4 children Jerome, Ronald and Joyce. He moved 13 times during his childhood and graduated from Salem High School, which later became North Salem High School. He was committed to building roots and keeping his family in one place in the house that he built in the Macleay community. Homer was married to his beloved wife, Ann Rue for 68 years. Homer and Ann Rue were married in 1954 and raised 5 children together.

He worked for Clay Stenke, and his brothers, at their truck repair company, building dump trucks and log trucks. During that time, Homer and the Stenke Brothers started designing, casting and making toy trucks. Homer was precise, paid attention to detail and was meticulous with his work. He developed into a master machinist in all his future work.

Homer worked at the All American Toy Company. He was one of the first employees and the original tool and die maker, as well as an amateur photographer who captured the first years of production.

Homer served as a Sergeant in the US Army, Korean War. He was drafted into the US Army and was placed in charge of a machine shop. Homer served active-duty Dec. 6, 1950, to Nov. 29, 1952. He was stationed in Maryland and France.

Homer worked as a machinist at Franklin Swede in Independence, Oregon, for 20 years creating logging equipment.

He worked until retirement for Norpac in Brooks, Oregon, as a mill wright.

Homer was active in his church with many bible study and fellowship groups, regularly hosting small groups in his home. He was a strong role model and shining example of the joy and love of Jesus Christ.

Homer was so committed in helping his kids and grandchildren with home projects from building houses to problem solving and repairing automobiles. Homer had a love for classic cars…

…He led by example and blessed us all in so many ways.

He is survived by his 5 children and their spouses: David & Jill Rue, Ross & Patty Davey, Tim & Trisha Rue, Jim & Melissa Salchenberg, and Rob & Susan Rue; 11 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.